One of His First Photos

Sarah and I spent a lot of time with Bowen today in the PCTU (Pediatric Cardio-Thoracic ICU). At some point over the next few days we will be faced with a lot of the difficult emotions and responsibilities that come with Bowen’s HLHS, but right now we are just soaking in all the joys of being the proud parents of a brand new baby. We can’t stop staring in wonder at the sight of our little boy wrapped in a white and blue striped blanket, snuggled up next to his stuffed alligator and monkey, wearing a cap that his great grandmother knit together with love.

A couple of random things…

I placed my hand over Bowen’s smooth little chest a lot today. After Monday, it will never feel the same.

Emmy and Claire met their little brother for the first time around 5:30pm. They were so excited! After expressing how cute and cool her brother was, Emmy said, “can we go to the playground?”

Laura

Maria aka Rockermom

Bowen is soooooo adorable! Praying for you guys as you face the upcoming days. Looking forward to seeing pics of Emmy, Claire and Bowen! congrats again, much love going to the whole family, be blessed!

Sweet Bowen is amazing, what a gift from the Lord! Our family is steadfast in prayer for your family and Bowen as you enter this time. God is continually gracious and Mighty and He will bring Bowen through this in His hands! We are praying for wisdom and guidance for the Dr.’s. Know that God has a plan and He will do Mighty things through little Bowen. You will stroke his sweet little chest, scar and all, and remember what great things the Lord has done.
In our prayers
The McCulloughs

Rhi

Lisa Mendoza

We once sat where you both did. A little girl with rare congenital birth defects and very little hope in her prognosis. When I heard your story on KLOVE I immediately flashed back to our time in the NICU in KC, each day one longer than we thought possible. What I remember most is the supernatural peace that can only come when you know without a doubt that God is walking with your baby, your family, the doctors and nurses and that HIS perfect will is the outcome. Michaela’s defects were so severe that the medical team actually recommended we terminate the pregnancy and were told our “best” outcome would be a still birth. While it has been a long road with many weary days as well as victorious days, we will celebrate her 15th birthday in November! She has exceeded everyone’s predictions and expectations. We truly see each day as a gift. Just remember that HE is able to do exceeding, abundantly more than we can ask or imagine. I pray that you will walk in supernatural peace and strength and that you will be able to feel the Lord’s presence as you walk through these next days. Our family will continue to pray for yours. HE IS ABLE!

Tammi T.

It is amazing how quick others can be to “write off” the precious life God gives. Our son was diagnosed with HLHS at 20 weeks gestation and we were told several times how “serious” it was and asked if “anybody had suggested abortion?” But our little miracle was created by God and he is now 6 years old. The road hasn’t been smooth but God is good and you couldn’t tell that there is anything wrong with him now (unless you saw him without his shirt).

Lucia Millington

He is more adorable than I could have ever imagined and I adore his hat!

Bowen, you are very loved and very prayed over. You are a beautiful boy and we know about beautiful boys b/c God blessed us with the best! He’s blessed your Mommy and Daddy, too!

Matt, what you said about his chest never being the same brought tears to my eyes. We never really thought of that until after the surgery and then later on when I was making Ethan’s first photo book. One of his first pictures is of him with just his little hospital beanie on, right after he was cleaned up- chest smooth and baby soft. I never knew it would be any different so there weren’t moments where we could wonder at what was to come (and savor what would be forever changed). Well, now our boy has his badge of courage and it’s pretty cool- but I do long for those first days. I wish I would have taken more time to snuggle. I think I would have done it 24/7 because, on that fateful day at 5 days old, the next time I’d get to hold him again was just before his open heart surgery 4 days later. We are blessed, though. EXTREMELY blessed and I wouldn’t change a thing (unless I could take away the hurt and fear those days of being separated from us and then following his surgeries).

We love all of you and are praying for you. We were so giddy to hear of his arrival and THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing a picture!!!

Stephanie

I’m praying that your “small, victorious one” will be exactly that. Thank you for sharing your story and giving so many of us the opportunity to cry out to the Lord on behalf of your family. May our God of might amaze and astound you with His answers to prayer.

Melody

Janie

Wow!……such a beautiful baby!….Thank you for sharing, please know that my prayers are deeply with you and your family!…..It breaks my heart that children would have to go through any pain or sickness!…But we believe that he healed!

Megan & David Messenger

Ever since i heard of baby Bowen’s struggle, i have wanted to send you guys a note of encouragement. On June 9th, 2010, our son Noah Daniel was born with a hypoplastic right heart with a small VSD and small ASD. Yesterday was his 3 month birthday, and i’m so blessed to report that he is doing incredibly well. It seems he will only require 2 more surgeries. Both before age 3. The joy in all of this for you and us both, is simply that our God truly does bend every situation for HIS good. Our family is closer, our days not taken for granted, and our faith truly strengthened. It is amazing what the lord has revealed to us through science and medical advancement, the wisdom HE gives to doctors and the way he guides our steps. HE IS FAITHFUL. I know that he has been with us every step of the way and because i know our God does not change and because I know He is no respector of persons with regard to his character, I know he will do the same for you. I know everyone is praying for you, but know that one mother and father out there who know a little bit of how you feel, are praying with hearts full of hope: not only for How God will see you through this time, but how He will bless, and touch, and use little Bowen’s life!

Summer

He is so precious! Our family is praying for you and your family and especially little Bowen. Jesus, please give the Hammit family strength, wisdom, and Your peace that only You can give. Please keep Your hand on Bowen as You have this whole time and help the doctors to have steady hands. Thank You for this precious child that You have made perfectly in Your own way. In Your Name, amen!

Amy Connolly

Isobel Johnson

Hiya.That was a long haul ,that birth!!!!! Hope Sarah’s bearing up physically now (under the circumstances).What a precious bundle.Gorgeous!! Congratulations Emmy and Clair. What a beautiful brother you have. One day you’ll be taking him to the playground too!!! Matt, there aren’t many words to say except to add our prayers to all those of the rest of the ‘family’ 🙂 out there ,for strength to be strong and be able to LEAD this precious family he’s given you. Through all the difficult days , may you continue to have a song in your heart and on your lips, Maybe on paper too!! Thank you for sharing your hearts with us.
Luvs to y’all.

Lisa Hoewing

My family and I have been praying for you ever since we heard the news this summer. We have also walked where you are walking. Our son Aaron was diagnosed with a different birth defect known as CDH. We were told at 18 weeks through an ultrasound and it was suggested that we end the pregnancy. We trusted God to lead us to the right doctors and to give us the strength we would need to get through this difficult time. Our son had his first surgery at five days old and then went on to have a few more surgeries for related issues. He is now a healthy active 8 year old. When he is asked about his scars he tells people that God made him special. My husband always jokes and says you should have seen the other guy. Our journey for Aaron’s healing took a 2 1/2 month stay at St Louis Children’s Hospital. This experience has forever changed our lives. We have chosen to use our experience to minister to families that have babies in our local NICU or have been given challenging diagnosis. You have already ministered to so many through your songs but also the way you are handling your situation with Bowen. May God continue to bless your ministry, your marriage and your family. Congratulations on a beautiful baby that God is has chosen to use to teach others to trust in Him and hold steady to His promises for He knows the plans He has for us!

You are right to marvel at his smooth chest – and one day you will treasure that first picture. BUT someday when he’s older and running around after his sisters without his shirt on at a pool, or in the backyard on a hot summer day, you will look at him and be so proud of that badge of courage he carries. All of us in the CHD world teach our children to not be ashamed of their scars, but be proud to carry them. And they should be, because they have endured more in their first three years than most people do in a lifetime.

Ahsha

I am so happy that your entire family got to spend time with little Bowen. He certainly is beautiful. Sarah, I was thinking how well you must have eaten and taken care during the pregnancy. Bowen is strong and seems like a calm, peaceful baby. Matt, God’s hand will make the incision scars go away as if they never happened and you will feel that smooth little chest again. Rain down on this family Holy Spirit, rain down.

Lena

Thanks for sharing, what a beautiful little boy,our thoughts & prayers have been & will continue to be with all of you. With having a special heart he is so fortunate to have two loving, caring, God fearing parents. So many new babies are not wanted & never know the love Bowen already feels. God Bless your families!!

Maria

Thanks so much for sharing the picture. Bowen, you are so loved and prayed for, by so many!

Someday Bowen will be on the playground with his sisters. And God loves to work miracles, Matt. Maybe you’ll get to feel a smooth chest on your little guy again after all. But if not, the scar will just confirm that he is, indeed, a victorious one.

Linda

Bowen is beautiful!! Hold on to how good God is. He will be your strength in your moment of weakness. God is so amazing, and so is your Heart surgeon. Thank you God for providing someone who will help Bowens heart

Cassandra Selznick

Matt and Sarah, i am keeping you and your family in my constant prayers. Bowen is so adorable !! I believe that God has a spcial purpose for Bowen and his little heart, and as Bowen grows with the Lord in his life, and as he follows the path that was set for him, he will fulfill that purpose. Personally, i was hit by a car at the age of 8, at wich time the Dr,s said that i would either die or remain in a vegatative state for the rest of my like. I remained in a coma for 16 days. I am now 45 years young. Until two months ago i was able to walk and function normally. I’ve had MS for three years. I am now unable to walk due to the MS. I am fulfilling Gods purpose for my life. I am currently in a Rehab/ Nursing Center in Mass.. I witness to the other residents here through word and actions. I believe that some day Bowen will fulfill the purpose that our Lord has set for him. May Gud bless you and your family richly, and give you peace. Love Cassie

Gale Bagwell

What a beautiful baby! God has truly blessed your family. Take in every minute of the love that he gives. Our family has been through all those emotions and still at our precious one is almost two think about it daily. You have to give it to God. He is the ONE in control of everything. It is amzaing how we think of these littles ones as being so fragile and yet they heal so quickly.
I am a freind of Sandy Peters in Simpsonville, SC. My grandson, Ivan, was born with HLHS almost 2 years ago. His birthday is Oct. 2. He is doing very well and he has had very few problems during his two years of life. I praise God every day for what he has done in Ivan’s life and what I have learned from all of this. Please know that you and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers and will continue to be.
Blessings and Heart Hugs – Gale Bagwell, PROUD Grandma to Ivan Taylor, HLHS, CoArc

Congratulations on your precious little baby boy. Boys are such a blessing… we have five of them!

Our youngest, Zachary John, was born with Double Inlet Left Ventricle and Tricuspid Atresia. It’s like HLHS, but he is missing his right ventricle, not his left. Zachy, too, was born and had his surgeries up at the U of M (we came all the way from Kansas.) You are at THE hospital for Bowen’s condition!!! The surgeons and supporting doctors and nurses are world renowned, and our prayers will take you the rest of the way.

Ron, Aubrey, and Kylie Stowers sent us your direction (Kylie was Zachary’s “roommate” in Pod A.) Know that our family will be praying fervently for Bowen and your family, and we will ask Zachary’s supporters to intercede for you as well.

kelly brooks

We spent quite a bit of time in that same PCTU 18 years ago with our son and know that this is true God is good all the time. The nurses and physicians that work in that unit and on the cardio floor are absolutely amazing. Bowen is so precious – to you and also to the very One who loves with an incredible love and allows nothing to happen without His permission. Keeping you in our prayers.

Sarah and Ryan Wilkins

Newborns always bring out the “awe” factor- this little man brings out more than that in our hearts. He is just gorgeous- enjoy kissing those sweet little lips and smelling that amazing “baby smell”!!!! Lots of love to you all.

Brittany Smith

What a piece of heaven! So beautiful…. fearfully and wonderfully made! He is as perfect and cute as they come! Thanks for all the updates and thanks for sharing a precious little photo of your baby boy! He is so very loved. Can’t imagine the emotions you must be feeling though… We’re praying for God to give you supernatural strength to get through each part of this journey. >With love from the Smith family

Penny Elder

Praise our wonderful God who has blessed you, Matt, Sarah, Emmy and Claire with this precious “little victorious one” who is definitely a gift from God. We pray “Oh, Father, we come to you in the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ, and lift up this family to you right now, and pray that you overshadow them with the Power of the Holy Spirit to comfort them with Your Peace. We pray for divine wisdom for the doctors and for the surgery to be totally successful with no hindrances to perfect healing for Baby Bowen. We pray for a divine miracle for his heart to be perfect as by your wounds, Jesus, he IS HEALED. Little Bowen is the Healed of the Lord. We pray for Your divine Peace for Matt and Sarah, and the girls, and for the Grandparents as well. You have blessed them with this precious little one and we know you will show your Awesome Power to Heal and the whole family will have a testimony that you Jesus are the One that Heals us. In Jesus Name-Amen!” We will continually lift you guys up~~Much love in Christ, Rich and Penny

Amber Jersild

I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers!~ Isaiah 65:24, NLT

This was the encouraging word from KLove today and I thought it was prefect for your wonderful family. I am praying for you all as you undergo these tough times. May God give you strength to handle every twist and turn. I know God will be with Bowen in the operating room on Monday. I pray that he helps you guys to handle everything that comes your way. May God bless you are your 3 wonderful children!

Delilah Meyers

Thank you for the updates and the pic! He is perfect! I remember looking at my son, Teagan, and wondering how anything could be wrong with him when he looks so healthy! But they are “Beautifully and Wonderfully Made”! I will continue to pray for Bowen and your family! God is Good..and it doesn’t hurt that he is in good hands at the UofM. The docs and nurses there are amazing people! Thinking of you all…..

Congratulations on your sweet baby boy–he is beautiful!!! Boys are such a blessing… we have five of them ourselves!

Our youngest son, Zachary John, was born with Double Inlet Left Ventricle and Tricuspid Atresia. It is a condition similar to HLHS, but he is missing his right ventricle instead of his left. He, too, had his surgeries up at the U of M (his last surgery was in June.) You are in the very best hospital for Bowen’s condition! Those doctors and nurses know just what to do to help him, and God’s healing touch will carry you the rest of the way.

We were sent your way by the Stowers family (Kylie was Zachary’s “roommate” in Pod A.) Please know that Bowen and your family will be in our daily prayers.

Yvette Desautels

Your Bowen is so beautiful. I know you must just be bubbling over with joy at the mere sight of such a little miracle. I am praying for his healing and for the strength and endurance you as his parents will need in the time ahead of you. May God continue to bless you all!

Amber Woodyard

What a beautiful baby boy!!! As I am scanning the comments, I can only merely echo the excitement others express, the hope they share and the prayers for strength, wisdom and healing in the days to come. One other note caught my eye, and that was concern for Sarah- don’t forget to take care of yourself. I remember the shock after 24 hours, when I realized, wait, I can’t just be the mother of a sick child, I’m postpartum, too!!! Thank you for sharing the thought about the “intact” skin on Bowen’s chest… that is something I had not thought about until it was too late. BTW -they make a great little boys t-shirt that says “chic’s dig scars.” Take care, and my thoughts and prayers are with you over here in WI.

Cassie N

He is beautiful. I will continue to pray for him! We also prayed on Wed night with our prayer group for him..I can’t express how grateful I am to be able and pray on your family’s behalf. Thank you for allowing us to be part of this story-stay focused on God, he has some amazing plans for little Bowen-cant wait to see them unfold. Sending love to you all!

alan earl

Karen Edwards

You and little Bowen – he is so precious – are close to my heart. My daughter Lori was pregnant with twins, one who was deprived of much nourishment in the womb. Michael was born at full term weighing 2 pounds, his twin at 4. At 5 pounds he had to have surgery on his aorta because it was so narrowed. He subsequently has had surgeries for many other problems but I am here to tell you that he is a feisty race-around tough little boy who just celebrated his 8th birthday with his twin brother Justus! We marvel at this great miracle! My husband also has had cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) for 20 years. He was told he would need a heart transplant 18 yrs ago but still has his own heart!. He has an ICD implant (pacemaker/defibrillator) which paces his heart and keeps him alive. So we go day by day by God’s grace. He has a plan for Scott, a plan for Michael, and a plan for you and little Bowen. No matter the plan, you are a beautiful family and I KNOW you will get through it all resting in His hands. God bless – we are praying for you daily. And – P.S – thank God for K-LOVE! Karen and Scott

Karen Good

Your situation is somewhat close to my heart as we had a son November 2006 who was born with a CHD, transposition of the great arteries. He had surgery at two weeks old and ended up having to be on a heart/lung transplant machine for infants (ECMO machine) for two weeks as well. His lungs were not fully developed when he was born @36 wks, 3 days old. He did not end up surviving past a month old-he was pulled off the ECMO machine at 1mo old (December 2006). I pray for little Bowen as his heart heals these next weeks and years-and whatever surgieries he has to have. I pray for your wife/family as you have to endure these trials with Bowen. God bless always!!

Heidi

First of all, he is adorable, and Bowen is a wonderful name!
Second, I am lifting you all up in prayer, for strength, wisdom, peace, and joy in this difficult and uncertain time.
I know firsthand how God can work and how He can move. I have had my share of heartache.
After having 2 healthy children (Kaitlin and Anthony), we were pregnant with our 3rd. We had a healthy normal pregnancy, but at 37 weeks, our son was stillborn. We named him Jeremiah, after our favorite bible verse, Jeremiah 29:11, and his name means “God will uplift.” An autopsy revealed no definite cause of death.
After a few months of trying, we were blessed with our 4th child, a boy we named Vincent, which means “to conquer.” After a stressful but healthy and normal pregnancy, Vincent was delivered a few days before week 37 to prevent another stillbirth. His lungs were slightly immature so he spent 8 days in the NICU. He was released with hopes of a normal, long and healthy life. However, just 4 days after coming home, Vincent went limp in my arms. He was rushed to the ER where he was revived and sent to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where his condition continued to get worse and he died 3 hours later. An autopsy revealed a staph infection, but could not tell us where, how or when he was infected. It was however a particularly virulent strain of staph aureus.
Our hopes of having another healthy child diminished after we tried for 9 months to get pregnant again, but thankfully, we are now expecting our 5th child, another boy, in late December.
We have learned that God is our source of strength and that He has all things in His hand. Our boys had a purpose and are still teaching us about the character and grace of God each day. We are hopeful that our new little one, Chase (named in memory of my father) will live a long, healthy God-glorifying life. But we know that God’s Will will be done and we know that it is for the best.
In honor of Jeremiah, while I was pregnant with Vincent, I started Project BEAR – Bringing Empty Arms Reprieve. I give teddy bears to hospitals to give to families that lose a baby due to stillbirth, miscarriage or early infant death. I have seen Christ work through Project BEAR to bless grieving families and bring a little comfort.
I will continue to pray for you and Bowen, and please know that no matter what happens, God knows the plans he has for you, and they are plans for hope and joy, even in the midst of uncertainty and pain.

Christine Kisabeth

Bowen is precious! What a beautiful little boy! Sarah, I know your grandmother, Gloria. We sat behind her in church for over 10 years and have had many a fun time swimming in her pool. For several years now we have been attending CedarCreek Church, so we do not get to see her as often. But I have thought of Gloria and all of you often as I have prayed for Bowen and your family. I have shared Bowen’s story with my own prayer warriors. He is truly in God’s hands and He will bless all of you. I will continue praying for good health, for Bowen, and for peace, patience and knowing that God is with you every step of the way for your family. God bless all of you! Please give Bowen a kiss for all of us who love him even though we have never met him.

Julie Kramer

I just would like to start off by saying your new song “Lead Me” is my favorite! So true in what a wife and children want from their husband/daddy. The main reason I am posting though is 8 years ago our family was blessed with a beautiful little boy, Timothy. Timothy is the youngest of our 5 children and has down syndrome. He also was born with an Atrial Ventricular Septal Defect. We live in Minnesota but our pediatric cardiologist sent us to Ann Arbor, Michigan for his repair. She seemed to think they are top in the nation. I am in the medical field and can’t tell you how reassured I felt when we arrived there. Timothy is doing well now and other than his scar on his little chest you would never know how sick he was (at 5 1/2 mo old when he had his surgery he weighed less than 9 pounds). There were many times when I felt God just picked us up and carried us as there were times I just felt like I could no longer make it. So I guess my hope is to encourage you and to remind you to keep looking up to God as He is the One true comfort and strength and there are better days ahead….and you have the awesome experience of learning to rely on God more than you could possibly imagine. I would not trade our experience for anything as God was always in control and he used it for a growth experience for our entire family, He never likes to see us suffer but knows that our growth and character our so much more important than our comfort. Bowen and your entire family are in my prayers….and keep looking up! Psalm 73:26 My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

The Dieckhoner Family

This is Julia, the oldest girl of the 10 kids. We met you at Adrian’s birthday/pool party. Bowen is just as beautiful as can be! Congratulations to all of you! Remember, I told you if you need help babysitting or anything, just let me know and I sincerely mean it! For now, our whole family is praying the Rosary and going to Mass as often as we can for little Bowen.

Nancy

God Bless you and little Bowen! My prayers are with you as you go through the coming days. God has Bowen in the palm of his hand. He is a beautiful, wonderfully made little boy. I pray the Lord does great things through your little boy!!

There was no dought in my mind your son would be beautiful, that is the only way you two could make children inside and out. He is amazing, and so are you both. I hope you are all doing well, and the Burke family will be praying for Bowen and all of you. If you need anything no questions asked!!!!!!!!!!!! Much love coming your way always Jen

Nancy

Lacey Olivia

He’s so beautiful. These times can be hard. I’m not a parent but I know that it was hard for my parents when I was little and sick. Just listen to your instincts and trust that God knows what he’s doing. I know you guys are probably already doing that though. Your son is already touching lives for the glory of God. I guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree

Tammi T.

What a beautiful and precious boy! Thanks for sharing him and his story! Since we have a 6 year old HLHS son, we can empathize. Yesterday, when I first heard his story on KLOVE then visited your web-page, this was what was on my encouragement calendar and I thought it might encourage you. This is from Charles Swindoll’s “The Grace of Encouragement” calendar. “Nothing enters your life accidentally – remember that. Behind our every experience is our loving, sovereign God.”

sandy laws

Your handsome little man is beautiful. I pray fo God to give you peace during this difficult time. Always know that God is in control and His will is perfect. He sees the whole picture where we see one small piece of the puzzel. Know that God is already there!

patti raider

Matt , Sarah, and family…. My heart is flooded with emotion over all the love and prayers being poured down upon you because God has tapped the heart’s doors of so many people, calling them to prayer in your behalf. Bowen is GOD’S MASTERPIECE. We cannot explain the thoughts of God. We believe his word when he says that all things work together for our good according to his riches by Christ Jesus.
I have never walked in your shoes, but I know what it is like to spiritually and emotionally lay a son upon the alter, totally surrendering his life to the perfect will of God. There is no safer place than in God’s hands. You are facing such difficult times, so in words of prayer to God… Lord we agree , asking for the hand of God to be on this precious, and beautiful baby, Bowen. We pray for your peace to fall down upon this family, carrying them during these difficult hours and days ahead. We believe in miracles, and we ask you for one now. We know not your will , but Lord we commit Bowen to you, totally. We pray for the surgeon’s hands that you will guide them, and for the wisdom and knowledge that can only come from you to be upon every person who is involved in the decisions and tasks ahead. Thank you, Lord
for your faithfulness, and may this little child be used for your glory in greater ways than ever thought possible. Now, I ask for your richest blessings to continue to fall, for Bowen is already the greatest one of all. We give you all glory and honor to your name, Jesus, the most powerful name in all of Heaven & earth. Thank you for all you have done already and all you are about to do…we give you all the glory, AMEN.
I love you and your family so very deeply in my heart. I listen to the song Matt sings to you , Sarah, and the presence of God just takes my breath away. I know you both, personally, and I hear a life story of love from a husband who is out doing the work of the Lord to his loving wife who is holding down the fort at home in his absence. God loves you very much, and this is the story of a christian family trusting with their entire being, their GOD. TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL THINE HEART, AND LEAN NOT ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING ; IN ALL YOUR WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE HIM, AND HE SHALL DIRECT YOUR PATHS. I have literally had to dissect this verse word by word in my life. I would say, TRUST…and remind myself that , that meant no waivering… God will see you though all of this, and as for a scar…we all wear scars, some you see, some you don’t. They are reminders of where we were and where God has brought us from. I LOVE YOU AND I WRAP MY ARMS AROUND YOU IN WORDS. I SO WISH I WERE THERE WITH YOU. YOU ARE ALWAYS CARRIED IN THE POCKET OF MY HEART. CONGRATULATIONS…. You were hand-picked by God, and he knows exactly what he is doing. He has the BIG PICTURE. Please give my love to your parents, Matt, my dear friends, Gary & Gayle, they are prayer warriors too and we join them in these prayers as well. I look forward to hearing all the praise reports about Bowen’s Heart… please give him a kiss from Aunt Patti- Love to all of you, Emma,Clair too… GOD IS GOOD …ALL THE TIME….WE SERVE A GREAT BIG AND WONDERFUL GOD….HE IS STILL ON THE THRONE AND HE IS STILL A GOD OF MIRACLES !!!!!

Ron Willis

Good morning,
God has really laid your family on my heart. Bowen is in my prayers and so are y’all. I wanted to share this poem with you. I hope it comes to you as typed; but if not, the beginning of the first five lines spell his name.

Bowen Matthew

Blessed be our son; with your precious little heart.
Only God knows the greatness to which you will be a part .
We don’t know why your journey has to start out this way;
Every step along your path though, will be covered by those who pray.
Now we put your story; which has only just began,
in the hands of our Father, the Holy Spirit and His Son!

Tracie

Angela

I will be leaving work on Monday morning, as Bowen goes to surgery. I will be praying. I will pray numerous times that night as I care for little ones just like Bowen at another great hospital! God has great plans for both your family and Bowen as you all take this journey together! May God continue to bless every minute you have and may you continue to give all the glory to God…you are in God’s hands, Angela

Monica

Congratulations!!! He is an adorable “gift” from GOD. Our family has had you in our prayers, and will continue praying, even though we know he has already heard us and has a “perfect plan” for Bowen’s life. On Monday, Bowen, will be the reason for my “fasting”. May GOD pour out strength, courage, and peace to you and your loved ones. God Bless You in your journey. Monica

SandyB

Bowen is so adorable! We will continue to pray for your little one, especially tomorrow on surgery day. I can remember how I felt the day Jayden had her Norwood and I know it will not be easy, but it is all in God’s hands. May God continue to bless you and your family.

Aaron Garver

Congratulations, God is doing a mighty work in your life. You are blessed. I know the fear you face my youngest daughter was born with goldenhar’s syndrome. I dealt with fear and doubt and still do from time to time but you will see the strength and resilience of our God in this fragile new frame and it will give you hope like never before. You are loved and blessed.
Aaron

Jackie

In the eye’s of God, Bowen is perfect – not unfortunate, different, or anything less than perfect. As a mother of two healthy girls, I can not imagine the rainbow of emotions you will feel – some dark, some lighter. My prayer is that you can take comfort in the fact that he is in God’s hands and God has a plan. You have touched the lives of so many, and God has good things in store for you all. It’s God’s plan, not our plan. While you wait anxiously as HIs plan is revealed, I pray that you all enjoy every minute of your new miracle.

Dee Joseph

We continue to pray that God Bless your family and wrap his arms around you. Your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers in the coming days. He is just precious! God be with all of you. The Josephs’

Merissa Love

I have really been praying for Baby Bowen. May I share a story on the power of prayer?

My little guy was born at 28 weeks weighing in at 2 lbs. He was born very healthy and could even breathe on his own, however, at 11 days his intestines begin to rupture. They had to perform emergency surgery and salvage as much gut as they could. 3 days later his vitals were crashing due to septic shock. THEY told me he was in a lot of pain and that it would be humane to turn off his ventilator….THEY didn’t KNOW how MIGHTY OUR GOD IS!

FUNNY THING WAS: I wasn’t serving Jesus at the time, so I really didn’t know how to PRAY. I didn’t know any church songs so I sang Christmas Carols like Silent Night and Away in a Manger…with in hours his vitals began to pick up… GOD HAD HONORED MY TRUST IN HIM. My son is now 9 years old and can eat like a HORSE! HALLELUJAH!!!!!

MY POINT IS all that it takes is for us to BELIEVE to HAVE FAITH to KNOW.

Of course this is not breaking news or anything, however, sometimes it helps me to be reminded of GODS POWER to those who TRUST. :o) Ya know? Anyway, it is amazing how these surgeons can work on such tiny bodies. I pray that God touch the surgeons hands, I pray that Baby Bowen fights and pushes through, I pray for your strength, I pray Jehova Rapha heals! Love you guys!

Grace Rodriguez-Elliott

Since I first heard Lisa from K-Love tell about your story I began praying for you and your family. It brought back so many memories of my little grandson Ethan. We call him Ethan our Little Warrior. He was born at term with no notice of any problems inspite of multiple sonograms. He too was born with HLHS and that news forever changed all our lives. He spent many months at Texas Childrens Hospital in Houston, Texas and his surgeon Dr. Frazier along with the entire team were a true blessing. He just turned two in July and he has been a true testament of God’s faithfulness and in this short time of his life Ethan has taught all about love, hope, constant prayer and the power of miracles. The scars on this heart are a reminder that he is indeed such a warrior. He is full of love and is the happiest little boy; just a true blessing. He still has a long difficult road ahead of him as my son and his family prepare for his 3rd surgery but we have all learned to take one day at a time and to give thanks for his life and for the lessons he has already taught us. My son recorded a video that is on u tube under HLHS Ethan Hernandez. I will continue praying for your family and pray God’s strength and protection on little Bowen.

Amber

Julie Harrington

What a beautiful baby boy! I have been praying for you since I heard your story on KLOVE. I will continue to pray for healing for Bowen and strength for all of you. Thank you for sharing such a powerful, public demonstration of faith in your private lives. Bowen is blessed to have you as parents!

cliff and cassie Berry

Patrice Wyatt

He is so beautiful! And while his little chest will never feel the same, you can think of the scar as God’s fingerprints on him as He made him better. So many prayers are going up for him, and for your whole family!!!

Christine

Casi Williams

Such a precious gift from God! You have been truly Blessed and I will pray that the Blessings continue! I also pray that God will continue to give the Doctors the knowledge needed in treating little Bowen and that He also gives little Bowen great fighting instincts! I also pray that God continues to give you both comfort and strength to go through the journey you have in front of you! I am so Blessed in my own life to get to hear Matt sing with Sanctus Real and I am even more Blessed for reading and knowing your families story! Thank you so much for sharing and know that you are so loved and thought of often, even by strangers! God Bless ALL of you and May God send fast healing and recovery for Bowen! Much Love in Christ Casi!

Lauren Colley

He is so adorable!! Thank you for taking the time to share him with us!! I am just now able to get on and see him for the first time…as the site was not letting anymore one…so many are praying for your family…may little Bowen be strong!

Ben, Staci, Anothny, Zack, Nathan, Mikaila, and Baileigh Lister.

Beautiful. He is such a beautiful little boy! As I read this post, it brought back memories of having the same moment with my daughter prior to her first open heart surgery. Her little chest was so smooth, so pristine. I still today look back at photos of her prior to that surgery & for a minute second think what if…

Then I recall lyrics to a song that I’ve heard many times. “Heal the wound but leave the scar. A reminder of how merciful You are!” I can’t remember who sings that song, but what a powerful word! It is so unfortunate, unfair even in the eyes of a parent, that out little precious gifts from above have to endure such terrible things in their lives here on earth. But to know the testimony that our daughter has, & even we have makes it easier to endure.

Praying for all of you as you begin this journey in the world of CHD’s.

susan

Bowen’s smooth chest…I remember doing the same thing. I took lots of pictures of that smooth chest. Spent lots of time rubbing it too. And now I do the same, 2 surgeries later. But instead of taking pictures of his chest, I take pictures of him, and his battle scars!

Rachel Smith

I had those same thoughts the night before my son, Weston’s surgery. That his little chest will be forever scarred. That he will never be the same after this. I just pray that he becomes a strong healthy boy and that everytime a classmate, coach, teacher, or stranger sees that scar that God will get every ounce of the glory!! THANK YOU so much for sharing on this site about your own trials. It is so hard to go through this. Just today I was thinking about how I still struggle with emotions that I cannot explain to others who do not understand. Thank goodness we serve an awesome God who does understand. And it is such a blessing to read your blogs that are so familiar and be able to relate to someone else who is going through the exact things, in the exact place, with the exact doctor that I did. I know I didn’t visit this website by chance today with those feelings of feeling like I was the only one, God put me here and let me read that. What an amazing thing and this is surely part of God’s amazing plan!!

Stephanie

Teri Downing

Matt, Sarah, Emmerson and Claire…EVERY time I hear or play a Sanctus Real song (and then some), I pray for your family. God’s awesome timing of titles, “Pieces Of A Real Heart,” “Lead Me,” and you listening to “Hold My Heart” after the dr’s appt, again and again, show His perfect timing and love for us. Handsome little Bowen is a pricele$$ gift God is entrusting to His best for Bowen…you!! With “Lead Me” being #1 (so excited)…what incredible timing to remind us all that we need to depend on “#1,”–our Lord, to “lead us” in every area of our lives. Our church’s music pastor, my 10 year-old daughter and I sang “Lead Me” as part of a Father’s Day series. It was a blessing to sing it. Thank you for writing it, along with all your other songs, for shining Jesus and allowing us be on this journey with you. We are all family in Christ and love the Hammitt family!

Jillian

What a beautiful little boy!! i will keep him in my prayers, aswell as the rest of his family. I just pray that he makes it through this and grows to be a wonderful christian! I can only imiagine how you parents must feel right now. My son (Daryn age 2) had an out patient surgery last week and I was sooo nervous and felt soo sorry for my poor guy. I know that you must be feeling 100 times worse but just know SOOO many people are praying for him and your family and with god surely he’ll pull through.

Vanessa Miller

Congratulations on your new baby boy!! He’s most certainly a precious gift from God. I just found your story and upon learning about Bowen’s heart and your family, I’d like you to know I’ll be praying for ya’ll and little Bowen. God is our Lord Almighty and has your Bowen in the palm of His hands. I hope ya’ll find peace and comfort and love while relying on our God to work his miracles, and joy with every touch and look from your beautiful son. God Bless.

Jeanine R Ryan

Hello…your son is so adorable!! You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I am so thankful that the surgery went well. It will be a long road ahead, but God will be with you every step of the way. He looks like a real trooper. May God give you the peace, strength, and rest that you need, and also for your girls. God Bless you. Jeanine

Bev

Christine

Your son is so percious. May the Lord Blesss your family and keep little Bowen safe. Children are our gifts from the Lord. So when he gives us a gift, I don’t believe he would take it away,( Please understand I’m not calling your beautiful son an it.) I just wanted you to know that I will continue to pray for your family.

Rebecca Pickering

One day you will grow to cherish that beautiful scar on your sweet child’s chest. My baby is now 16 and I love her scar. (When she was little she called it her pencil.) My prayers are for you and your family to be comforted and to feel God’s peace and healing.

Amanda

I just wanted to say I find myself coming to the site off and on through the day to see the post. I also fin my self looking at this photo of little Bowen and just pray. I pray that God strengthens his tiny heart and that both of you find strength in each second.

Emily

Tina

I heard about your story on K-Love. My husband & I have a 4 yr. old son that was born with a heart defect and has required 3 surgeries. My son was also at U of M & went thru alot of the same complications. U of M is the BEST hospital for cardio-kiddos. Yes, his chest will never be the same. But he will have an amazing testominy to tell people, because the Lord has a wonderful plan for him. The road to recovery is a long & scarey journey, but the Lord is with you every step of the way. I will be praying for you, and your children.

Your son is so precious and has already touched more lives than most people do in a lifetime. (He was born on my birthday-so he is exceptionally special!). I have not been thru the on-going tramatic pain that you have, but I did lose my 16 year old daughter in January 2008 in a car accident. I know the pain of losing a child and hope that you never have to go thru that final step. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

Monica

Beth

Wow! He is beautiful! Our 4th child was born in June and the sutures in his head were already fused (no soft spot in one area), he’s scheduled for a skull reshaping surgery in November. I can’t hardly imagine my little baby having such a major surgery…I am constantly rubbing his sweet head as I too realize it will never be the same! That really resonated with me! God bless you and little Bowen, I’ll be following you and praying from one moms tender heart to anothers!